Miguel Cardoso bemoans Sundowns' set-piece woes despite MTN8 progression

Mamelodi Sundowns secured a 3-2 victory over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final, but coach Miguel Cardoso criticized his team's performance in set pieces. Both of Polokwane's goals were scored from set pieces, with free kicks finding the back of the net in Sundowns' penalty area. Despite their efforts, Sundowns fell short, only advancing after substitute Cassius Mailula scored a late winner.

Cardoso acknowledged that the team faced numerous challenges early in the season, stating, "Last season we suffered three goals from set pieces. Today we suffered two." He also mentioned that Polokwane City's defensive tactics, particularly their man-to-man marking, made it difficult for Sundowns to break through. Cardoso commended his team's response to the goals and praised their intention and commitment throughout the match. He expressed satisfaction with the result, recognizing it as a promising start to the season.